Written by David McConnell, GAC Volunteer Writer
It turns out that the first Oktoberfest originated on October 12th, 1810, in the Kingdom of Bavaria. It was instigated to help celebrate the marriage of the Crown Prince, who later became King Louis I, to his wife Princess Theresa von Sachsen Hildburghausen. After the regal ceremony, multiple days of feasting, drinking and horse racing ensued. This tradition has carried on in Germany and elsewhere throughout the world as a cultural pastime for more than 200 years and shows no signs of slowing down. But if you cannot travel to Munich or Berlin or any other international locales where suds flow, food is consumed and music is performed to usher in yet another Oktoberfest, do not worry. You don’t even have to leave Guelph. Just head over to Royal City Brewery and engage in what has become one of the best Oktoberfest experiences on offer.
According to general manager Dan Schmidt, he has always wanted to organize an Oktoberfest event at the brewery. Cam Fryer who, along with Russ Bateman, co-own Royal City Brewery, wholeheartedly agreed. Dan has German heritage, and Cam has spent many years living in Germany so it can readily be seen why both have been passionate about this undertaking.
Recently, Royal City Brewery celebrated a decade in business, but their first Oktoberfest offering didn’t occur until 2017. It began as a one-day event in the large parking lot at the back of what was then a much smaller facility. Along with the necessary beer, a plethora of food trucks filled stomachs at communal picnic tables as music fleshed out the authentic feel. Two years ago, the brewery undertook a massive expansion which allowed it to host a much larger three-day festival and that is what patrons can expect again this year.
Let’s look at what is on tap, besides beer, this year. The larger kitchen now means that an assortment of German-style foods will be on offer such as a variety of sausages on a bun with all the traditional fixings. People can head indoors for a larger array of food selections, but the Oktoberfest event itself will be outdoors under a large tent once again providing that German-style accent to the days. While many different Royal City beers can be purchased indoors, outside a Munich Dunkel, Oktoberfest Lager and the popular Exhibition Ale will be served. And one mustn’t forget the music. A variety of styles from traditional to rock and roll will be provided to help get people tapping their toes and up dancing. Friday night will see the Flamingos take the outdoor stage; on Saturday afternoon
the German style band WildBahn will perform. Royal Castles will cap off Saturday evening’s musical output. Sunday will feature a family day where admission will be free. While there will not be horse racing, games and activities for kids, including a climbing wall erected by the Grotto next door, will be a part of the day’s fun.
Tickets for Friday or Saturday are $15, which includes one beer, and can be purchased online through Royal City’s website. Staff have tended to buy into the event by dusting off their lederhosen and dirndl skirts to get into the spirit. Feel free to join in this aspect of dress-up fun yourself. Hope to see you there as Royal City Brewery welcomes in the Fall and Oktoberfest in the same breath. Ein Prosit.
